Successful HIV Testing Week in Odesa

From November 25 to 29, 2024, medical facilities in Odesa participated in the European HIV Testing Week as part of the initiative «HIV in Europe».

Supported by the Department of Health of Odesa City Council and other organizations, free confidential HIV testing was made available to all interested individuals.

Rapid tests that provide results in just 15 minutes were used for the screenings. The purchase of these tests is funded by the city budget under the “Health” program.

During the testing week, 1192 people were tested, resulting in 8 positive cases.

Patients with positive results were referred to the City AIDS Center for confirmation of diagnosis and initiation of antiretroviral therapy.

Modern antiretroviral drugs are provided free of charge and help minimize viral load in the blood.

Currently, 96% of HIV patients receiving antiretroviral therapy in Odesa have an undetectable viral load, preventing disease progression and the development of AIDS.

The achievements in HIV detection and treatment highlight the successful implementation of the Fast Track Cities initiative, which Odesa joined by signing the Paris Declaration.

Odesa's efforts in combating HIV have received international recognition.